Eighth District Councilmember Al Austin invites the community to join him in making Martin Luther King, Jr. Day a “day on, not a day off” by planting trees in Scherer Park today from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

This “Day of Service” event, organized in conjunction with Leadership Long Beach, provides an opportunity for local residents to honor the MLK, Jr. holiday by serving the community and celebrating the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It is one of several such events planned throughout Long Beach for this year’s MLK, Jr. Day.

Led by Councilmember Austin, volunteers will plant 25 new trees in the park. The trees being planted will diversify the park’s ecosystem and add colored leaves in the fall.

The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on today, January 20 at Scherer Park. Food and refreshments will be provided. Participants are invited to bring their own shovels and work gloves, if possible.

“I am excited about this opportunity to honor the legacy of Dr. King and help beautify Scherer Park with the help of local community members,” Councilmember Austin said. “These trees will be enjoyed by park goers for decades to come, while contributing to cleaner air and the area’s biodiversity.”

All are welcome to volunteer for this service activity, which is one of thousands of nationwide volunteer service activities planned across the country in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.